Outcomes of Closed Diaphyseal Humeral Fracturestreated by Dynamic Compression Plate versus Intramedullary Nail

Background: C ompression plates and intramedullary nails are the devices for humeral shaft fracture stabilization. “The nailing has been associated with post operative shoulder pain and stiffness due to impingement from prominent implants. Plate fixationreduced the risk of shoulder problems and may also reduce the risk of reoperation and shoulder impingement.” Objective:To “compare the outcomesof closed diaphyseal humeral fractures treated by dynamic compression plate versus intramedullary nail.” Methods: 40 “patients of closed diaphyseal humeral shaft fracture, reported within two weeks were included. Clinical examination and x-rays were used for diagnosis of fracture and its types. Patients were equally divided in two groups; dynamic compression plates (group-A) and intramedullary nail (group-B). Postoperatively severity of pain, complications, and hospital stay were compared. Chi Square test was applied, pd”0.05 considered as significant.” Results: Postoperatively, “in DC plate, 50% mild pain, 35% moderate pain, and 15% severe pain was observed. In IM nail, 30% mild pain, 50% moderate pain, and 20 %severe pain was observed. In 4 and 7 complications were observed in group-A and B respectively. Hospital stay was1-10 days for 40% patients of group-A and it was 11-20 days in 60% patients. In group-B, the hospital stay was 1-10 days among 55% patients and 45% patients stayed 11-20 days.” Conclusion:”The management of closed diaphyseal humeral fractures with DC plate is better than IM nail with low rate of severity of pain and complications.”